So, Been living here since 2017. Anyone in a similar situation? Thanks for reading. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
12 upvotes
15 Replies
Delilah R.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a chef, 52, moved here 4 years ago from San Diego. I've lived in East and Greenfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Close to major attractions
2. Diverse dining options
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The traffic situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- East: Great for couples. challenging vibes, walkable.
- Greenfield: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from San Diego, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $100K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
40 upvotes
Josiah B.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem tough.
I've been here 5 years and I genuinely enjoy living here. The thing nobody mentions is safety. It's growing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the community vibe is legit. And if you're into rock climbing, this place is challenging.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Lakewood side vs the Maple Ridge side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
36 upvotes
Aiden W.
Moved here last year, no regrets.
33 upvotes
Samuel Carter
I'm a electrician and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. The community is solid and there's always something going on.
28 upvotes
Hudson Cook
We moved here with our family and I have mixed feelings honestly. Schools in Meadowbrook area are underrated. Kids love it here.
27 upvotes
Allison
yep
24 upvotes
Bryan J.
Bought a house here in 2020 and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Property values have gone about the same since then.
21 upvotes
Owen Jackson
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Meadowbrook for 9 years. Moved from Atlanta for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
construction is strong here. real estate is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have rivers within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Meadowbrook schools are pretty good. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Urban sprawl is real. Not a lot of cultural diversity. And dating scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 6/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
20 upvotes
Colton Jones
We moved here with our family and it's exactly what I was looking for. Schools in Fairview area are hit or miss. Kids love it here.
17 upvotes
Michael Morales
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is weather. it exceeded my expectations. Worth doing your research before committing.
12 upvotes
Naomi
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want weather, then yeah this place is great. But if pet-friendliness matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
11 upvotes
Eric C.
interesting, hadn't considered that
9 upvotes
Ellie
Public transit is decent here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's not perfect but it works for me.
7 upvotes
Cameron Patel
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. it was the best decision I ever made. Compared to Phoenix it's improving.
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